The Night Flight Orchestra will be releasing their third album, Amber Galactic, on Nuclear Blast on May 19th. And while the band has current and former members of metal bands (Soilwork’s Bjorn “Speed” Strid and David Andersson; Arch Enemy’s Sharlee D’Angelo, their sound is very much rooted in catchy ’80s hard rock. With that in mind, we had guitarist David Andersson give us a list of his favorite (mostly) ’80s songs. Check out the Spotify playlist, follow up on Spotify if you haven’t already, and preorder Amber Galactic right here.
Spiritualized, “Come Together” from Ladies and Gentlemen We’re are Floating in Space
This is a 90’s track, but it has a very uplifting, gospel-esque feel to it, despite the bleak British backdrop.
James Gang, “Alexis” from Bang
This might be Tommy Bolin’s finest moment, about a brief acquaintance on the road, and the inevitable melancholy that follows. With one of the top 5 guitar solos of all time at the end. (ed. note: this is from 1973)
Ultravox, “Dancing With Tears in my Eyes” from Lament
A fantastic example of living during the Cold War-era, with that constant threat of a nuclear war looming over your heads. And once it happens, you just want to get drunk and dance with the one you love.
Nik Kershaw, “Wouldn’t it be Good” from Human Racing
An almost Beach Boys-ish sweet melody, delivered from a dysphoric 80’s perspective. Be careful what you wish for. (ed note: the original version isn’t on Spotify, we included him doing it acoustically, which is)
My Bloody Valentine “You Made Me Realise” from EP’s 1998-1991
One day I’m going to write a song called Bilinda Butcher. Plain and simple. She might be the best frontwoman in rock history.
Elton John, “Sad Songs (Say So Much)” from Breaking Hearts
This song speaks for itself. The gay dancers in the rain help driving the point through, though.
Genesis, “Turn it on Again” from Duke
A musical masterpiece, and also a perfect depiction of that 80’s sense of alienation.
Georg Wadenius, “Cleo” from Cleo
The perfect example of Swedish 80’s fusion guitar, which will always remain a huge influence on this band.
Philip Bailey/Phil Collins, “Easy Lover” from Chinese Wall
It epithomises that 80’s mating urgency, something that we slow Swedes still has to catch up on.
Popsicle, “Hey Princess” from Laquer
Swedes are way better at having broken hearts though, and this is pretty much the blueprint of everything we do.
